16 June 2011

LISTEN: DADT Activist on the Lack of HIV/AIDS Netroots Programming

Ian Finkenbinder arrived to activism out of "necessity." The former U.S. Army Arab Linguist was discharged from the U.S. Army under "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and has become active online, on Twitter and through Get Equal on DADT repeal. The Oregon activist was also one 13 former servicemembers—including Lt. Dan Choi—who was arrested in November 2010 for chaining themselves to the White House fence.

Finkenbinder learned that he was HIV positive three years ago and also has become active around HIV/AIDS issues. The veteran says that he is "disappointed by the lack" of HIV/AIDS programming at Netroots Nation and the LGBT Netroots Connect. "Why aren't there any panels or discussions?" he asked.

"There is not one session at Netroots Nation, nothing about fundraising or awareness," he tells R20. "Why not? Fighting HIV/AIDS is a progressive cause. That's why I brought it up at the LGBT [Netroots Connect]."

This is Ian Finkenbinder's first Netroots Nation. He is one of about 40 bloggers and activists recruited on a scholarship program developed by the fabulous Mike Rogers and Netroots Nation. Follow @OneAngryQueer and listen: